Description and Characteristics
Orange calcite is a variety of calcium carbonate that owes its intense orange colour to the presence of microscopic inclusions of hematite (iron oxide) or colour centres trapped within its crystal lattice. It is found mainly in massive formations and is very common in Mexico. Like its relatives, it belongs to the trigonal system and is notable for its translucent transparency and lustre, which is often described as ‘caramel’ due to its soft, luminous visual texture.
| Chemical Formula | $$CaCO_3$$ |
|---|---|
| Luster | Vitreous or pearly |
| Streak | White |
| Fracture | Conchoid |
| Cleavage | Perfect |
| Hardness | 3 Mohs |
| Crystal System | Trigonal |
Did you know...?
Su nombre proviene del latín Calx, que significa Cal.
New-Age Properties
Calcite is a powerful amplifier and cleanser of energies. Simply having calcite in a room cleanses negative energies from the environment and boosts your personal energy reserves, as well as removing stagnant energy from the body. It is a spiritual stone that facilitates the opening of higher consciousness and psychic abilities. Psychologically, it connects emotions with intellect, creating emotional intelligence. Mentally, it helps relax the mind, teaches discernment and analysis, stimulates perception, and enhances memory. Calcite relieves emotional tension and replaces it with serenity, as it is a stabilizing stone. On a subtle level, a grid of appropriately colored calcites balances and energizes all the chakras. Orange calcite, in particular, is highly energizing and cleansing, especially for the lower chakras. This variety of calcite helps balance emotions, dispels fear, and helps with depression, while also dissolving problems.